ballastløse

Ballastløse refers to a concept in railway track construction. It describes track systems that do not utilize ballast, which is typically a layer of crushed stone or gravel. Traditional railway tracks consist of rails supported by sleepers (ties), which are then embedded in a bed of ballast. This ballast layer provides drainage, distributes the load from the train to the underlying subgrade, and helps maintain the track's geometry.

Ballastless track, also known as slab track, replaces the ballast with a rigid foundation, often made of concrete or asphalt. This foundation directly supports the sleepers or rail fastenings. There are various designs of ballastless track. Some systems embed the sleepers directly into a concrete slab, while others use a continuous concrete base. Another common type involves a concrete plinth supporting the sleepers.

The primary advantages of ballastless track include reduced maintenance requirements compared to ballasted track. It eliminates the need for ballast tamping and renewal. Ballastless track also offers greater stability and precision in track geometry, which can be beneficial for high-speed lines and metro systems. It can also be more durable and have a longer service life.

However, ballastless track typically has higher initial construction costs. Its installation is more complex and requires specialized equipment. Repair and renewal can also be more challenging and expensive if significant damage occurs to the underlying structure. Ballastless track is particularly common in tunnels, on bridges, and in urban environments where space is limited or maintenance access is difficult.